Norway Rejects EU Arctic Drilling Ban to Secure Gas

Norway will continue developing oil and gas resources in the Barents Sea regardless of the European Union's support for a moratorium on Arctic hydrocarbon supplies. Energy Minister Terje Aasland stated that continued activity in the region serves both Norwegian and European interests, particularly since Norway became Europe's largest natural gas supplier following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Aasland argued that Norway possesses a sovereign right to develop these resources, noting that the specific areas opened for activity are ice-free and less prone to environmental impacts. While the EU is considering revising its policy due to energy security concerns, Norway intends to maintain production levels until at least 2035.

Additionally, Aasland rejected the previous concept of Norway acting as Europe's green battery, calling it a "flawed idea" that left the country vulnerable to continental price swings. As a result, Norway will not build new power interconnectors, though it remains committed to power sector cooperation.